"Someone needs to seriously look at these types of charges and allegations that can be levelled at a professional footballer, on the basis of one person's word.

"This has devastated Jay and his family. Serious and disgusting allegations of this sort can taint someone's life forever, even if he is later cleared of the charges. They will remain on internet searches forever.

"We are determined to fight the allegations; we will challenge the FA over the charge at the independent tribunal, and Jay is taking legal advice to ensure his name is cleared.

"In the meantime, he is determined to play against Chelsea on Monday, because he will not allow false allegations of this sort to disrupt his fight to keep West Brom in Premier League."